Michigan State exhibits complete control, secures victory against Western Michigan in season opener
In a dominant display of football, Michigan State claimed a 23-6 victory over Western Michigan in their season-opener. The Spartans, showcasing their strength at home, extended their impressive streak of consecutive home wins against nonconference opponents to 25, a run that began in 1999.
The game began with Michigan State taking an early lead, scoring on their first two drives. Brandon Tullis kicked off the scoring with a 12-yard touchdown run in the first quarter, followed by a 9-yard touchdown run from Brady Frazier, increasing the lead to 14-0 in the second quarter.
Aidan Chiles, starting quarterback for Michigan State, had a solid performance, throwing for 155 yards and a touchdown. His touchdown pass, a connection with Nick Marsh, extended Michigan State's lead to 14-0 in the second quarter. Chiles also added 26 yards on the ground, setting up Michigan State's next score.
Makhi Frazier, in his first career start, rushed for 103 yards and a touchdown. His touchdown run in the second half helped secure the win for Michigan State.
Defensively, Michigan State was in top form, forcing Western Michigan to turn the ball over on downs three times. The Western Michigan offense struggled, managing only 29 yards rushing in the game.
Brady Jones, a transfer from Riverside Community College, started for Western Michigan and completed 11 of 23 passes for 97 yards and one interception. Broc Lowry also contributed, completing 5 of 10 passes for 91 yards for Western Michigan.
Western Michigan's only touchdown came late in the game, with Tate Hallock intercepting Alessio Milivojevic and returning it for a touchdown. However, it was too little, too late for the Broncos, who have now lost 14 straight games to Michigan State, with their last win dating back to 1921.
In a disappointing end to the game for Western Michigan, Hunter Smith missed a 46-yard field goal attempt late in the third quarter. Despite a valiant effort, the Broncos were unable to mount a comeback against the dominant Michigan State team.
